Having a tooth extracted is a common dental procedure, but it can leave you with a sore mouth and a list of foods and drinks to avoid. Knowing what to drink after tooth extraction can help speed up your recovery and prevent complications.
This guide will help you understand the best choices for hydration and nourishment during your healing process.
Quick Answer: What Should I Drink After a Tooth Extraction?
After a tooth extraction, it's vital to choose drinks that aid in the healing process and avoid complications. Here's a quick guide:
Immediately After Extraction:
Opt for cold or lukewarm drinks, like water, Gatorade, or coconut water.
Avoid hot drinks, alcohol, and carbonated beverages to reduce bleeding and infection risk and also prevent mouth burns.
Drink water regularly but don’t swish it around in your mouth. Use a cup instead of a straw to avoid dislodging the blood clot.
In the Following Days:
Introduce smoothies, avoiding seeds or nuts. Use a spoon instead of a straw.
Milk and non-dairy alternatives are good options. Ensure they're not ice cold.
Avoid:
Alcoholic beverages, as they can slow healing and interact with pain medications.
Hot drinks until full sensation returns to your mouth, and ensure they're not too hot when reintroduced.
Sugary and/or carbonated drinks, which can irritate the extraction site and increase decay risk.
Understanding Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction is a surgical procedure that removes a tooth from its socket in the bone. It's often necessary when a tooth is damaged beyond repair, or to prevent overcrowding or infection.
After the procedure, it's crucial to follow your dentist's aftercare instructions to promote healing and avoid complications like dry socket or infection.
One of the key aspects of aftercare is knowing what to drink after tooth extraction. The right choices can help soothe your mouth, keep you hydrated, and provide necessary nutrients while your body heals.
What to Drink Immediately After Tooth Extraction
In the first few hours after tooth extraction, your mouth will likely be numb from local anesthesia, and you may experience some bleeding. It's crucial to avoid hot drinks during this period as they can increase bleeding and are likely to burn your mouth while it's still numb.
Instead, opt for cold or lukewarm drinks. Water is always a safe choice, but there are other options that can provide a bit of flavor and additional nutrients.
Water
Water is the best choice for hydration after tooth extraction. It's gentle on your mouth and can help keep the extraction site clean.
Aim to sip small amounts of water regularly throughout the day, but avoid swishing it around your mouth or drinking through a straw, as this can dislodge the blood clot that forms in the socket.
While tap water is fine, some people prefer bottled water or filtered water, as it can taste milder and be more soothing to a sore mouth.
Gatorade
Gatorade can be a good option after tooth extraction, especially to replenish electrolytes and keep you hydrated. It's important to choose a variety that is low in sugar to avoid irritation to the extraction site and minimize the risk of complications.
As with other beverages, sip Gatorade gently, avoid using a straw, and do not swish it around in your mouth.
The drink's electrolytes can aid in recovery, especially if you've been unable to eat solid food and need to replenish lost nutrients.
However, due to its acidity and sugar, it's best consumed in moderation and not as a primary source of hydration post-surgery.
Coconut Water
Coconut water is another excellent choice after tooth extraction. It's naturally hydrating and contains essential electrolytes like potassium and magnesium, which can help replenish your body after the stress of surgery.
Just be sure to choose a brand without added sugars or flavors, as these can irritate the extraction site.
Like with regular water, sip coconut water gently and avoid swishing or drinking through a straw.
What to Drink in the Days Following Tooth Extraction
As your mouth starts to heal, you can gradually introduce more variety into your diet. However, it's still important to choose drinks that are gentle on your mouth and provide nutritional value.
Smoothies
Smoothies are a great choice a few days after tooth extraction. They're cold, which can help soothe soreness and swelling, and you can pack them with fruits, vegetables, and protein to help your body heal.
Avoid adding seeds or nuts that could get stuck in the extraction site, and remember to drink your smoothie with a spoon rather than a straw.
Try a simple banana and spinach smoothie with a scoop of protein powder for a nutrient-packed drink that's easy on your mouth.
Milk and Non-Dairy Milks
Milk and non-dairy milks like almond, soy, or oat milk can also be good choices after tooth extraction. They're a source of protein and other nutrients, and their creamy texture can be soothing to a sore mouth.
It’s best to allow them to approach room temperature before drinking, as especially hot or freezing cold liquids can irritate the extraction site. And as always, avoid drinking through a straw.
What to Avoid Drinking After Tooth Extraction
Just as important as knowing what to drink after tooth extraction is knowing what to avoid. Certain drinks can irritate the extraction site, increase bleeding, or slow down healing.
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcohol can slow down the healing process and interact with any pain medications you're taking. It's best to avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours after tooth extraction, and longer if possible.
Even after this period, be cautious with alcohol. If it causes any pain or discomfort, it's best to avoid it until your mouth has fully healed.
Hot Drinks
Hot drinks like coffee, tea, and hot chocolate can increase bleeding and may burn your mouth while it's still numb from anesthesia. Wait until your mouth has regained sensation before introducing warm drinks, and even then, make sure they're not too hot.
Sugary Drinks
Sugary drinks like soda and fruit juice can increase the risk of tooth decay, especially when your oral hygiene might not be up to its usual standards. They can also irritate the extraction site.
It's best to avoid these drinks until your mouth has fully healed.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what to drink after tooth extraction can help speed up your recovery and make the healing process more comfortable. Stick to cold or lukewarm drinks like water, Gatorade, or coconut water, avoid alcohol, hot, and sugary drinks, and remember to sip gently without swishing or using a straw.
With the right care and hydration, you'll be back to your normal diet before you know it. As always, if you have any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to reach out to your dentist.
FAQs
What drinks can you drink after tooth extraction?
Safe choices include water, Gatorade, coconut water, and lukewarm non-dairy milks. Smoothies are also good but should be consumed with a spoon, not a straw.
What is the best juice to drink after tooth extraction?
Opt for non-acidic, non-sugary juices like apple or pear juice. Avoid citrus juices as they can irritate the extraction site.
What liquids should I avoid after tooth extraction?
Avoid alcoholic beverages, hot drinks, and sugary drinks after a tooth extraction. These can slow healing, irritate the extraction site, and increase the risk of complications.
What is the best thing to take after a tooth extraction?
Hydration is key. Water is the best option. Additionally, follow any prescribed pain medication guidelines from your dentist or oral surgeon.
When can I stop worrying about dry socket?
The risk of dry socket significantly decreases after the first 48 to 72 hours post-extraction, but it is common for it to occur anytime during the first week. It's important to follow aftercare instructions during this period to minimize the risk.
Is Gatorade OK after tooth extraction?
Gatorade can be consumed in moderation after an extraction. It's helpful for electrolyte replenishment but should be chosen in low-sugar varieties to avoid potential irritation.
What drinks cause dry socket?
Alcoholic beverages and hot drinks can increase the risk of dry socket. Also, using a straw can lead to dry socket, so avoid drinks that typically require a straw.
Can I drink lukewarm coffee after tooth extraction?
Yes, but wait until the numbness has worn off and ensure the coffee is truly lukewarm to prevent irritation or burns. Avoid using a straw.
* Though the author of this post is a licensed dentist in the state of Kansas, this information is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Please use your best judgment and contact emergency medical services in the event of an emergency.